Commentaries | FULCRUM

Does Indonesia’s New Capital City, Nusantara, Fit into the President’s Long-Term Vision?

Concerns exist over the Prabowo administration’s commitment to Nusantara’s development, given its other priorities, unmet investment targets, and uncertainties surrounding coordination, transparency, and long-term vision.

Indonesia’s Sound Horeg Economy: Freedom of Expression Versus Public Health and Order

How do you solve a problem like loud music?

What the Weak Must Suffer: Indonesia’s High-Cost Trade Deal with the US

A fast deal is not necessarily a good deal if Indonesia strikes an unequal trade bargain to avoid higher tariffs.

Malaysia Must Address Ailing Security of its Ageing Society

Malaysia’s retirement fund system is ailing and will not serve the retirement needs of the populace adequately. It is time to consider a basic pension scheme.

Musa Aman Redux: Disquiet and Apathy in East Sabah

The return of Musa Aman to Sabah’s politics underscores the fact that, as time moves on, little has changed in the state’s political culture of patronage and corruption.

Why Students from China Are Picking Malaysia over Traditional Destinations

Mainland Chinese student numbers in Malaysian universities have surged recently, driven by affordability, proximity, and cultural familiarity, as well as restrictions in traditional study destinations such as the US.

Vietnam Should Keep its Credit Caps and Carry on Structural Reforms

Vietnam’s rapid credit growth in the first half of 2025, and Prime Minister Chinh’s call to further open the floodgates, are concerning. The government must not gamble hard-earned stability for ephemeral monetary expansion.